Second Saturday Art Walk, May 2023

May 13, 2023

For more than 30 years, the monthly art walk has become one of the most popular events in the region. Old Town stays lively all day, with many merchants and restaurants offering specials. 

​The pace picks up from 4–7 pm, when gallery openings and live music keep the streets humming with activity. ​

This Second Saturday Artwalk column 
is supported by

May's Hot Spots are Ms Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream,
203 North Second Street;  Parrot Head Bar & Grill,
111 Court Street; and  Thorny Oyster, 104 North Beach Boulevard. Read more about these featured businesses below!

​- Story and photos by McKenzey Northington

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Ms Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream
203 N. Second St., BSL | (228) 466-6280
Wed-Sat 12 pm – 8 pm; Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

 
Looking for a place to indulge in some sweet treats with your loved ones? Look no further than Ms. Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream. This family-owned joint has been serving up delicious desserts in Old Town since 2020.

 
When Ms. Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream first opened their doors, they started with just snoballs and a two-person wrought-iron table that they brought from their home for customer seating. Today they have outdoor seating that accommodates over 100 people, and they offer so much more than just snoballs! Their menu boasts an array of mouth-watering options including ice cream, shakes, food, and of course, snoballs.
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There are some seriously scrumptious treats on the menu that have become local favorites. For a creamy, nutty indulgence, try the turtle pecan shake, or try the mocha cappuccino shake for an extra dose of caffeine. If you really want to experience something magical, you have to try their famous specialty, the Unicorn Snoball. It’s a stunning blue raspberry and cotton-candy snowball or milkshake, piled high with a mountain of fluffy cotton candy, whipped cream, and brightly colored glitter sprinkles. And don’t forget the rainbow candy tail and the swirl lollipop unicorn horn - they truly make this treat a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
 

 
The atmosphere at Ms. Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect place for families and friends to spend quality time together. Kids can ride their bikes to the shop from their homes or walk from the neighborhood. The music and atmosphere is always kid-friendly, making it the perfect family experience.
 

 
As soon as you step up to Ms. Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream, you are transported to a charming, Mayberry-style setting. It’s no wonder that this spot has become a local favorite for people of all ages.
 

 
Ms. Mary’s Snoballs & Ice Cream will be celebrating their Hot Spot status this Second Saturday, May 13. Visitors can enjoy live music all day and discover the three new cookie sundaes that will be available for the first time, including lemon blueberry, salted caramel, and chunky chocolate chip. Additionally, in honor of the Queen for a Day Mother’s Day event, the first 25 moms who visit the shop on Second Saturday will receive a complimentary small ice cream or snoball of their choosing. Mark your calendars for this exciting event and come satisfy your sweet tooth at Ms. Mary’s.
 

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Parrot Head Bar & Grill
111 Court Street, BSL | (228) 363-1290
Kitchen Hours: Mon-Tues 11 am – 3 pm; Wed-Thurs 11 am – 9 pm; Fri-Sat 11 am – 10 pm
Bar Hours: Wed-Sun 11 am – Last call; Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-7 pm

 
Steps away from the sandy beaches of Bay Saint Louis, you’ll find the popular local hangout, Parrot Head Bar & Grill. Located in the Bodega building, this popular watering hole offers a one-of-a-kind experience with great food, tasty drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere.
 

 
As soon as you step inside, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise. The outdoor seating area is surrounded by lush palm and banana trees, while the walls inside are adorned with all sorts of beach adventure decor, from paddle boards and kayaks to wind surfing equipment and bicycles.
 

 
But it’s not just the ambiance that sets Parrot Head apart. Their menu is filled with delicious eats and daily specials that will make your taste buds dance. From fan-favorite French Dip au Jus and zesty wings to their mouth-watering specialty burger and crabby cheesy bread, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to try their signature margaritas, mojitos, and lemonades made with fresh, juicy fruits.
 

 
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Parrot Head hosts live music every other Saturday 3-6 pm and karaoke every other Friday night. And if you’re looking for something extra special, mark your calendars for Second Saturday on May 13!
 

 
Parrot Head is celebrating their Hot Spot status with a variety of exciting specials. Enjoy live music by Shelby Martin Anderson from 3 to 6 pm while indulging in their delicious Second Saturday Chicken Cordon Bleu special, and sip on their unique specialty drinks at the bar. Parrot Head Bar & Grill will also be hosting a Gift Card Giveaway this upcoming Second Saturday. Receive an entry into the drawing with any drink purchase made at the bar on May 13.

 
Escape to Parrot Head Bar & Grill this Second Saturday and experience the ultimate beachy vibe for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!
 

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Thorny Oyster
104 N. Beach Boulevard, BSL | (228) 688-0401
Tues-Wed 5 pm – 10 pm; Thur-Sat 11 am – 10 pm; Sun 10 am – 2 pm

 
Thorny Oyster is a renowned dining destination located in The Pearl Hotel in the heart of Old Town Bay St. Louis. The hotel is known for its elegant aesthetics and charm, but it’s the restaurant that has truly captivated the attention of both locals and visitors.
 

 
Upon entering Thorny Oyster, guests will immediately notice the stunning and thoughtfully designed decor. With blond wooden floors, custom-designed green wallpaper, high ceilings, and white globe ceiling lights, the ambiance is truly unique. The white marble-topped bar with black chairs adds to the classy atmosphere. The open kitchen is the highlight of the restaurant, where patrons can sit and watch as their meals are prepared.
 

 
One of the exceptional aspects of Thorny Oyster is its relaxed and upbeat atmosphere. Despite its impressive culinary offerings, the restaurant does not have a formal dress code or pretentious airs, making it the perfect spot for diners of all backgrounds and attire.
 

 
Executive Chef Jeffery Hansell’s dedication to food and his restaurant is evident throughout Thorny Oyster. Growing up on the Gulf Coast, Hansell always wanted to bring something back to his community, and his commitment is reflected in the delicious, creative menu and overall dining experience. What’s equally impressive is that Chef Hansell himself designed the restaurant, having started his culinary career as a dishwasher and worked his way up to the top. His goal was to create a welcoming environment that would appeal to everyone, whether they were coming in to celebrate a special occasion or just getting off the boat.
 

 
Thorny Oyster’s menu draws inspiration from a range of sources, including the low-country style of North Carolina, Louisiana, and Spanish and French influences. A seafood-heavy menu features options such as clams, mussels, lobster, oysters, and crab, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
 

 
When asked about fan favorites, Chef Hansell recommended the lobster roll and bouillabaisse. The lobster roll is a popular choice for lunch, while the bouillabaisse, a seafood stew that includes fish, shrimp, mussels, and clams, is a rich and slightly spicy dish that is perfect for dinner. It’s one of Chef Hansell’s favorites as well.
 

 
Experience why Thorny Oyster is the ultimate seafood dining destination by visiting this Second Saturday. Celebrate their Hot Spot status with live music and savor Chef Hansell’s creative menu, which highlights the Gulf Coast’s diverse seafood offerings in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. From a casual lunch to a special dinner, Thorny Oyster has something for everyone.
 

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